Before embarking on a new life journey in America, one must know the top things to do after moving to the USA from India. Knowing all the complexities of settling into a new country helps you have a smooth transition and enriches your living experience in the USA.

Join me on this insightful journey to empower yourself for a successful and fulfilling American adventure.

Top Things to Do for Navigating Life in the USA after Moving from India

Get the Soft Copy of i94

• After moving to the USA, one of the top things to do is the essential paperwork for Indian ex-pats, which includes getting a copy of your i94 document.
• This document is crucial to prove your legal stay in the USA in many places.
• You will get a copy of this document from the official website of the Department of Homeland Security.
• It is essential to keep this copy with you until you get a local state ID or a driving licence from the US government.

• Another notable point is to keep your document as a PDF on your mobile phone so you can show it anywhere in case of a requirement.

Get Verification of Employment Letter (VOE)

• If you're about to do a job in the USA, keep your verification of employment letter.
• Ask your HR Department to provide you with this letter unless they have yet to provide one.
• This document is necessary for verification of your income and employment history.
• Being an immigrant, this letter and the i94 are important to keep with you 24/7.

Getting a Mobile Connection

• After arriving in the USA, having a reliable mobile connection is necessary to keep yourself connected and make phone calls.
• Several mobile networks are provided in the USA, including Verizon, AT&T, LycaMobile and Mobile.
• Make sure to choose the best package that suits your mobile needs.

Open a Bank Account

• One of the essential points in the American lifestyle adjustment tips is opening a bank account to get your paychecks from the employer.
• If you have your i94 document and VOE letter, walk into any bank on Saturday and open your account.
• A bank account is also necessary to deliver your letters to your home address.
• Take a copy of the i94 document, VOE letter and your Indian passport with a VISA to open the account in the bank.
• While opening a bank account, opt for both savings and checking to move your funds more easily, and it helps a lot to move in the organization.

Apply for a Credit Card

• In the United States of America, you need a credit card for each loan and credit application so that your background will be screened for credits, debts, or penalties.
• You need a credit card to get a very high-interest rate, get a car loan, or pay for some security.

• Another important and notable thing is that you cannot get a credit card without credit in your account, so to get a secure credit card, keep the amount of $300 to $500.

Apply for the SSN Card

• The next thing to do after getting the i94 document is to apply for the SSN (social security number) card, which is equivalent to an Adhaar Card in India.
• You will be asked for an SSN card at any place in the USA for government-issued IDs.
• This SSN card will help you get everything in the USA, from loans to utilities, personal identity, memberships, and accounts.
• After 2 to 3 weeks of your arrival in the USA, visit any nearby local US Social Security Administration to get your SSN Card.

Get a Driving License

• Another essential tip to survive in the USA is getting a driver's license to move freely in the States.
• To get a driver's license, visit any nearby DMV centre and apply for a driving license.
• Before visiting any DMV centre, get your medical test done from any medical centre.
• After medical, learn and practice the rules of driving in the USA and get your appointment for a driving test.
• After clearing your driving test, you will get a driver's license for a year, which will also help you to get lower car insurance rates.

Find a Car

• The last but not least point on my list is to get a car as you've got your driver’s license.
• If you're living in a suburban area of the USA, you can't survive without a car.
• Local transport is very limited in the big cities of the USA, so going for groceries only will be very tough for you without a car.
• You can buy a new or old car, but make sure to buy a certified one.

Final Words

Moving to any country is tricky, requiring careful planning and proactive engagement. From essential paperwork to understanding the need for transportation, I've covered each detail in this article. This guidebook for the top things to do after moving to the USA from India will be beneficial for you to set up a successful stage of life in the States.

So, if you're moving to the USA to embrace the opportunities, each effort will contribute to your smooth transition. If you've questions, share them in the comment box.